Overview
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is an immune system disorder that results in low levels of the proteins needed to fight infections. This can lead to repeated infections in the ears, sinuses, and respiratory system, as well as an increased risk of digestive disorders, autoimmune disorders, blood disorders, and cancer. CVID can be inherited or acquired during a person's lifetime, and its severity can vary among individuals.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) include repeated infections in the ears, sinuses, and respiratory system, an increased risk of digestive disorders, autoimmune disorders, blood disorders, and cancer. These symptoms can vary greatly in severity between individuals and may appear during childhood or adolescence, or may not appear until adulthood. Some people with CVID may experience symptoms such as fatigue, fever, sore throat, muscle aches, loss of appetite, and weight loss, especially if their immune system is weakened. It is important to see a doctor if you have a weakened immune system and are experiencing symptoms of CMV infection, or if you have a newborn who became infected with CMV before birth, or if you have other risk factors for CMV infection.
Development
In common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), the condition can develop either through inheritance or during a person's lifetime. CVID is an immune system disorder that causes low levels of proteins that help fight infections. When a person has CVID, they are more susceptible to repeated infections in their ears, sinuses, and respiratory system. They also have an increased risk of digestive disorders, autoimmune disorders, blood disorders, and cancer. The exact cause of CVID is not known, and it is thought to be a combination of environmental and genetic factors. In around 10% of people with CVID, a genetic mutation has been identified.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you suspect common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), you should see a doctor if you have:
- Repeated infections that affect your ears, sinuses, respiratory system, or gastrointestinal system.
- A family history of immunodeficiencies or unexplained recurrent infections.
- Unexplained fatigue, weight loss, or swollen lymph nodes.
- Autoimmune disorders, blood disorders, or increased risk of cancer.
- Delayed or slowed growth and development.
- Frequent or recurring skin rashes or other skin problems. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan if you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about your immune system function.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) can lead to various complications due to the weakened immune system. Some potential complications include:
- Repeated infections: People with CVID are more susceptible to infections in their ears, sinuses, respiratory system, and gastrointestinal tract.
- Digestive disorders: CVID increases the risk of digestive problems, including inflammatory bowel disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and malabsorption.
- Autoimmune disorders: Individuals with CVID have a higher chance of developing autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
- Blood disorders: People with CVID may experience anemia, jaundice, or destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis).
- Cancer: CVID can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, particularly lymphomas and leukemias.
- Psychological problems: Some people with CVID may experience personality changes, depression, irritability, bipolar disorder, or psychosis.
- Neurological issues: CVID can lead to neurological complications, such as encephalitis, meningitis, or Guillain-Barre syndrome. It is important for individuals with CVID to receive proper medical care and treatment to manage these potential complications.
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). CVID is a genetic disorder, and as of now, there is no cure for this condition. If you have a family history of CVID or have been diagnosed with the condition, it's important to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your symptoms and reduce the risk of infections. This may involve regular check-ups, vaccinations, and treatments such as immunoglobulin replacement therapy. It's also essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular physical activity to support your immune system.